Between the matches against Valencia at the Mestalla and Levante at the Camp Nou, Messi had 19 shots. Only 2 were on target, and the keeper saved both of them, as compiled by the newspaper 'AS'.
Messi seemed to be measuring his efforts more than usual. The Argentine is famous for not doing anything for nothing, but against Valencia and Levante he was especially relaxed, two assists excluded.
He had 22 lost balls against Levante, and another 14 the week before against Valencia. And now he has to play two matches away from home, where Messi has been playing, for a while, his best matches.
Barca need the best Messi. That is not new, but it is convenient to remember it from time to time, because if Barca already suffer with him, in his absence the suffering is worse.